Global Courant 2023-04-26 21:02:50
KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian opposition has expressed its concern over the open days of the federal government, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, in six states hosting state elections in the coming months.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said he will organize open days in Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan between April 29 and May 14.
These six states did not conduct concurrent state polls during last November’s general election.
Perikatan Nasional (PN) chief whip Takiyuddin Hassan questioned the motive behind the celebrations in these states on Wednesday, saying that “it can no longer be separated from political motives and the scramble for influence in the run-up to state elections.”
“Putrajaya’s decision is clearly outrageous and outrageous as well as untenable.
“This set of celebrations also goes against conventions and etiquette of the relationship between the federal government and the states in terms of their authority and jurisdiction.
“This border crossing challenges the image of the states and will not contribute to good relations and mutual trust between the two sides,” he said.
Datuk Seri Takiyuddin also said that these “outrageous” Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations went against Putrajaya’s policy and commitment to being frugal.
“It was stated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in parliament that the government’s debt and liabilities are as high as RM1.5 trillion (S$449 billion), or about 82 percent, of the nation’s gross domestic product.
“According to Anwar, one of the most important steps the government will take under his leadership is to improve governance, as it has been alleged that a large part of government money has been lost due to weak management, resulting in debt exceeding economic growth,” he said. .
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said on Tuesday that Malaysia’s open house is not a wasteful affair.
‘Why should we be calculating about holding open houses to celebrate Aidilfitri with the people? That ketupat and lemang won’t cost that much. I don’t see any problem… how would it be a shame?” he said. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
